18 TISHREI 5776 • OCTOBER 1, 2015 • VOLUME XXXIV, NUMBER 19 • PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID, SYRACUSE, NY
Grant applications requested by teen funders By Kathie Piirak The Teen Funders Committee of the Jewish Community Foundation B’nai Mitzvah Program is accepting grant applications from local charitable organizations. Grant recipients will be announced by the committee following its October 25 meeting. All applicants must be legally recognized charitable organizations. Grant applications must be received no later than Thursday, October 22, by the Jewish Community Foundation B’nai Mitzvah Program, 555 Thompson Rd., DeWitt, NY 13214. Grant requests may be for funding up to $1,000. Applicants must provide details of the proposed project and explain how it forwards the organization’s mission. For grant application information, contact Kathie Piirak at 445-2040, ext. 106, or kpiirak@jewishfederationcny.org. The b’nai mitzvah program at the Jewish Community Foundation teaches the Jewish value of tzedakah through hands-on participation. More than 100
b’nai mitzvah funds have been established throughout the past 10 years. A b’nai mitzvah fund requires a minimum $250 donation from the teenager at the time of his or her bar or bat mitzvah. The donations are matched by the Pomeranz, Shankman, Martin Trust for an opening balance of at least $500. The teenagers advise which charities may receive the funds. All b’nai mitzvah fund holders are invited to join the Teen Funders Committee meeting. At the meetings, the teenagers are asked to contribute some of their fund money to a pooled fund to be distributed by the group. Last spring, the participants funded projects of Fayetteville-Manlius A Better Chance; Forget-Me-Nots Chorus; From the Ground Up Therapeutic Horsemanship; Syracuse Jewish Family Service; the Abraham Fund and Crouse Health Foundation. For more information, contact Teen Funder Coordinator Nancy Belkowitz or Jewish Community Foundation Executive Director Linda Alexander at 445-2040, ext. 130.
Israel copes with Syrian civil war’s new game of Russian roulette By Sean Savage JNS.org (JNS.org) – The civil war in Syria has taken a new twist throughout the past month, with reports emerging that Russia has started to significantly increase its military presence to help its longtime ally, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, continue his fight against rebel groups and terrorist organizations like Islamic State. At the same time, Israel has grown increasingly concerned with the continued destabilization of Syria, and Russia’s possible exacerbation of that situation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Moscow and met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on September 21, in order to speak with Putin about the stationing of Russian forces in Syria. It is Netanyahu’s first trip to Moscow since November 2013. After the meeting with Putin, Netanyahu told Israeli media that Israel and Russia agreed to create a “mechanism” to prevent inadvertent confrontations between their forces in Syria, The Jerusalem Post reported. “I made clear our policy to try to prevent through various means the transfer of lethal weapons from Syria to Hezbollah, which is actually done at the direction of Iran,” Netanyahu said. Putin told Netanyahu in public comments before the meeting, “Our main goal is to defend the Syrian state. However, I understand your concern and I am very
pleased that you have come here to discuss all issues in detail.” Netanyahu’s visit highlights “Israel’s serious concern about the possibility of advanced weapons reaching Hezbollah, as well as concern that Israel will accidentally clash with the Russian military,” Anna Borshchevskaya, the Ira Weiner Fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy think tank, told JNS.org. Throughout the past few weeks, reports have indicated that Russia has deployed weapons and military personnel to an airfield near Latakia, Syria – a stronghold of the Assad regime. These reports follow additional photo evidence in the Daily Mail that suggest that Russian soldiers have been in Syria since at least April, in addition to satellite images obtained by Foreign Policy that indicate extensive construction around Syria’s Bassel alAssad International Airport. Russia’s activity comes as Assad has suffered a series of civil war setbacks in recent months. During the summer, Syrian government forces lost the Idlib province to rebel groups and the ancient city of Palmyra to Islamic State. The setbacks led to the admission by Assad that his forces are suffering from “fatigue.” While Russia has not elaborated on its military buildup, its government confirmed to Reuters on September 9 that “experts” were assisting with Russian arms deliveries to Syria for the purpose See “Game” on page 7
Save the date – meet at the MOST
A Jewish Federation of Central New York “FriendRaising” celebration for all ages, featuring family friendly music, magic, socializing and food, will be held on Saturday, November 14, from 6:30-9 pm, at the Museum of Science and Technology in Armory Square.
There will be a small fee per family, with admission to the MOST included. The program will be catered by The Oaks and Va’ad supervised. Tickets are on sale now at www.jewishfederationcny.org, or by calling Marianne Bazydlo at 445-2040, ext. 102.
Film about WWII aviators who prevented second Holocaust who directed and produced By Judith Stander the picture, filmed excluThe Jewish Federation sive interviews around the of Central New York will world, including operation host a special screening leader Al Schwimmer’s of the documentary film only video interview. “A Wing and a Prayer” Schwimmer and his on Sunday, October 11, at recruits thought they were 2:30 pm at the Sam Pomerfinished fighting when anz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse, 5655 At right: Award-winning World War II ended in Thompson Rd., DeWitt. director Boaz Dvir will answer 1945, but risked their Immediately following the questions after the showing of lives and U.S. citizenship film there will be a post- “A Wing and a Prayer,” a to help the Jewish state. screening discussion with film about American World The morning after Israel Boaz Dvir, the director of War II aviators who defied declared independence, the award-winning film. the American government five armies invaded. The The event will be free and and came to Israel’s aid Arab League vowed to upon its founding and the “push the Jews into the open to the public. Syracuse University’s subsequent attack by Arab sea,” but was said to have assumed “relatively weak” Middle Eastern Studies League forces. opposition, since Israel Program and the Jewish was known to have an unequipped miliStudies Program are also sponsoring the event, along with co-sponsors Syracuse tary and no air force or allies. Even the University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Pub- United States had joined the worldwide lic Communications, Hillel at Syracuse embargo against Israel, barring citizens University, the SU School of Education, from helping the Jewish state. However, and the Holocaust and Genocide Educa- Schwimmer eluded the FBI and the U.S. State Department by creating fictitious tion Initiative at Syracuse University. The hour-long film tells the story of airlines; buying and repairing war surplus World War II aviators in 1948 who fought airplanes; and smuggling surplus Nazi to prevent what they viewed as “an im- weapons into Israel from behind the Iron minent second Holocaust.” The film has Curtain. Although Schwimmer and his aired on PBS stations around the United men are said to have helped “reshape States, and recent screenings include at history,” their contributions are thought to the American Jewish Historical Society in have been left out of history books. “I feel lucky and honored,” said Dvir, New York City and Columbia University’s a film and journalism faculty member at satellite campus in Paris. Narrated by actor William Bald- Penn State University, “to have had the opwin (“Backdraft,” “The Squid and the portunity to tell their incredible stories.” For more information, contact Judith Whale”), “A Wing and a Prayer” features Stander at 445-2040, ext. 114, or jstandfirst-hand accounts of the escapes. Dvir er@jewishfederationcny.org. (“Jessie’s Dad,” “Discovering Gloria”),
C A N D L E L I G H T I N G A N D P A R AS H A October 2.................6:26 pm......................................................... Parasha-Sukkot October 4.................6:23 pm............................................... Erev Shemini Atzeret October 5.................after 7:21 pm......................................... Erev Simchat Torah October 9.................6:14 pm....................................................... Parasha-Bereshit Otober 16.................6:03 pm..........................................................Parasha-Noach
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Film Fest
Congregational notes
News in brief...
The JCC and the Syrac use Local synagogues announce Netanyahu meets with Putin to International Film Festival will upcoming adult learning programs, discuss Syria; another rock-throwconcerts and more. present an Israeli film series. ing attack in Jerusalem; and more. Stories on page 4 Story on page 3 Stories on pages 7-8
PLUS Calendar Highlights............... 6 D’var Torah............................... 6 Mazel Tov.................................. 6 Obituaries................................. 7
JEWISH OBSERVER ■ OCTOBER 1, 2015/18 TISHREI 5776
Music, food and fun highlight 16th annual Jewish Music and Cultural Festival
By Vicki Feldman A new festival layout and sunshine provided the backdrop for the 16th annual Jewish Music and Cultural festival on August 30 at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse in DeWitt. More than 1,000 people of all ages attended and listened to the Jewish music, ate home-cooked kosher food, shopped at the vendors’ tables and participated in the activities. Among the overheard comments were, “It was a great, summer day to celebrate our community”; “We loved the intimate setup, the great music, food and the variety of eclectic vendors”; and “It was great to see so many families.” The Keyna Hora Klezmer Band kicked off the festival and the day’s music. The Alhambra Ensemble from New York City then performed. They were followed by Big Galut(e) with Robin Seletsky, who began their set with Central New York’s largest HORA with help from the Open Hand Theater’s puppets. Farah followed and closed the festival. Francine Berg, JMAC Festival co-chair, said, “We couldn’t have asked for a better day or a more festive mood. Our community had a great time enjoying the music, food and activities. Vicki [Feldman] and I are very thankful to everyone who makes this
annual festival happen: festival founders Sid and Donna Lipton and Mimi Weiner; committee members Steffi Bergman, Sis Zucker and Faith Van Voolen; the volunteers, sponsors, bands, vendors, the JCC of Syracuse, the Oaks Catering and the JCC’s maintenance operations staff for all of their hard work in keeping everything running so smoothly.” Once again, kosher food was available for festival attendees. A full menu of Jewish, Va’ad-supervised kosher selections was offered throughout the day under the festival’s outdoor tent. Seating under and outside the tent helped attendees could still hear the music. The JMAC also featured and children’s area and tent. Ora Jezer kept the children busy with arts and crafts and sand sculptures. Face painting, the instrument petting zoo by Signature Music, puppet shows by Robert Rogers Puppet Theater and the Price Chopper “hopper” also entertained the children. “I’m so pleased with the great variety of activities we had available at this year’s festival,” said Linda Alexander, president/ CEO of the Jewish Federation of Central New York. “The community organizations and vendors that participated were spectacular. The assortment of items available
Many Jewish organizations had information tents at the Jewish Music and Cultural Festival. (Photo by Len Levy)
The Keyna Hora Klezmer Band performed at the Jewish Music and Cultural Festival, and has been part of the JMAC Festival since its inception. (Photo by Len Levy)
See “Festival” on page 6
a matter of opinion letters to the editor Yasher koach to Chabad To the Editor: There is a widespread custom of beginning the first meal of the New Year by dipping a piece of challah into honey and eating it following the Kiddush. We begin the year with sweetness and we pray that God will grant us all an entire year of sweetness. For our fellow Jews who find themselves in the hospital on Rosh Hashanah, the beginning of the year is, unfortunately, not very sweet. They are separated from synagogue, community and religious practices that add meaning to their lives. On behalf of the Jewish patients at Crouse
Hospital and Upstate University Hospital, I thank Rabbi Yaakov Rapoport, director of Chabad-Lubavitch of Central New York, for arranging to have Rabbi Levi Rapoport sound the shofar for patients at these hospitals. By doing so, he brought some of the sweetness of Rosh Hashanah to them. These efforts were well appreciated. Yasher koach! Sincerely, Rabbi Irvin S. Beigel Rabbi Irvin S. Beigel is the Jewish chaplain at Crouse Hospital and associate chaplain at SUNY Upstate University Hospital.
Jewish Music and Cultural Festival attendees danced the hora in front of the Price Chopper main stage. A puppet from Open Hand Theater was also operated to participate.
of Central New York
Yasher koach to Federation, Oaks To the Federation board: You may have noticed my mom and me standing by the door at the Federation meeting last Wednesday night (September 9). We were on our way back to Mom’s apartment after dinner at the Oaks. We wanted to knock on the door of the board meeting, but were hesitant to interrupt. Mom and I both wanted to share our feelings about the Oaks and the critical role that Federation plays in our Jewish community. As you know, my mother, Norma, moved into the Oaks this past May. She would have told the board that evening that, since the day she moved in, she has felt right at home and was happy to be around so many people she felt so comfortable with. Her apartment has been perfect and the daily activities have been engaging and interesting. Even the food (Mom is always the optimist) has been very good. The Jewish community of Central New York should be proud that we have such a fine place. My comments to the Federation board would have been of a different nature. It was great to see through the window more than 25 members of the Jewish community engaged in dialogue and debate. It is all of those individuals and so many others who deserve a big thank you for their commitment of time and resources to ensure the future of
the Syracuse Jewish community. I would have recognized our dear friend Phil Holstein, who did a miraculous job in leading the most recent campaign, which raised more than $1,050,000. It is often said that God only asks those whom he believes can handle the most difficult challenges to accept the responsibility. Phil did that with this past year’s Federation campaign; and as we all know, he has been faced with another obstacle in his path – one we all hope and pray he will once again overcome. My last comments would have been reserved for you, Linda, our community leader. You have done so much throughout the years in so many different capacities to perpetuate and build the Syracuse Jewish community. Your tireless efforts and your belief that the Central New York Jewish community can and will remain strong gives all of us confidence to do our part in whatever way possible. You are the inspiration that helps to keep the light burning so strongly. I reflected on my missed opportunity last Wednesday evening and felt it was important to write this note. Robin and I and our family want to wish everyone a l’shanah tovah. Best wishes for a happy and healthy new year. Sincerely, Neil Goldberg
Syracuse Office
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OCTOBER 1, 2015/18 TISHREI 5776 ■ JEWISH OBSERVER
AROUND CENTRAL NEW YORK JCC and Syracuse International Film Festival to present Israeli film series October 17 and 18 By William Wallak The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse is sponsoring three Israeli films to be shown on Saturday and Sunday, October 17 and 18, as part of this year’s Syracuse International Film Festival. The JCC’s Israeli film series is funded by a grant from the Jewish Federation of Central New York’s 2015 Community Program Fund. Four episodes of “House of Wishes,” by award-winning Israeli writer, director and actor Haim Bouzaglo, will be screened on October 17, at 7:15 pm, at the Palace Theater, 2384 James St., Syracuse. Two Israeli comedies will be shown on October 18 at the JCC, 5655 Thompson Rd., DeWitt. “The Farewell Party” will start at 1 pm and “Zero Motivation” will be shown at 3 pm. There will be a charge for the tickets for the JCC’s Israeli film series, with a reduced price for seniors – ages 65 and older – and students. The tickets may be purchased at the JCC’s main entrance front desk and at the door on the day of the events. There will be a special package price for adults for both films on October 18. Tickets for the screenings, as well as all Syracuse International
Film Festival events, can be purchased online nasia and residents of a retirement home, will at www.filminsyracuse.com. be the first of the two October 18 screenings. In Bouzaglo’s Israeli TV series, “House of the movie, residents of a Jerusalem retirement Wishes,” re-named “Wish” for American home build a machine for self-euthanasia in distribution on HBO, is a fictional look at order to help a terminally ill friend. They are people who get a chance to relive defining then faced with a series of dilemmas when experiences of their lives. The drama follows rumors of the “mercy-killing machine” begin a psychiatrist who makes his patients’ deepest to spread. The second film, “Zero Motivation,” and most intimate dreams and secrets come revolves around a unit of female Israeli soldiers true. Bouzaglo will be on-hand at the October awaiting their return to civilian life from the 17 screening to receive the festival’s Sophia remote desert base where they are stationed. Haim Bouzaglo The comedy follows the characters as they Award for lifetime achievement. A two-time best director nominee by fight boredom, bureaucracy and one another the Israeli Film Academy, Bouzaglo is familiar with while working in the base’s human resources office. Syracuse. He filmed the movie “Session” entirely in JCC Executive Director Marci Erlebacher said, “I Syracuse in 2007. The film premiered in the U.S. dur- am delighted that the JCC is once again involved in the ing the Syracuse International Film Festival in October film festival this year. We’re excited to bring such fine 2010. His other films include “Fictitious Marriage” Israeli films to be screened here, alongside the many (1988), “Time for Cherries” (1991), “Tzaleket” (1995), other creative and diverse films being offered.” “Janem Janem” (2005), “Distortion” (2005) and “Blank For more information or to purchase tickets to SyraBullet” (2010). cuse International Film Festival screenings, visit www. “The Farewell Party,” an Israeli comedy about eutha- filminsyracuse.com.
Syracuse youth participate in teen leadership Shabbaton By Ruth Borsky During the weekend of September 11-13, 60 teenagers from Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Albany took advantage of a grant from the Wolk Foundation in Rochester and met at Camp Seneca Lake in Penn Yan. The main purpose of the weekend was a teen leadership
Shabbaton retreat, but it also allowed some participants to meet with their friends from camp, United Synagogue Youth and North American Federation of Temple Youth, while others began new friendships. With the Jewish Federation of Central New York and See “Shabbaton” on page 4
JCC flu shot clinic coming October 13 By William Wallak The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse will host a flu shot clinic on Tuesday, October 13, from noon to 3 pm, at the center, 5655 Thompson Rd., DeWitt. Most insurance, including Medicare, will be accepted. There will be a cost for anyone paying out of pocket. The clinic is being held in conjunction with Rite Aid Pharmacy and reservations are requested. For more information and to make a reservation, call 445-2360.
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DEADLINE L-r: Shir Juran, Natalie Eisenson, Anthony Fischer and Matthew Lynne attended a youth leadership Shabbaton at Camp Seneca Lake. They joined teenagers from Buffalo, Rochester and Albany.
At the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse, Jewish teenagers from around Syracuse loaded a car to visit Camp Seneca Lake.
Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center senior dining menu October 5-9 Monday – closed for Shemini Atzeret Tuesday – closed for Simchat Torah Wednesday – TBA Thursday – TBA Friday – TBA October 12 - 16 Monday – TBA Tuesday – TBA Wednesday –TBA Thursday – TBA Friday – TBA The Bobbi Epstein Lewis JCC Senior Adult Dining
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Program at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center offers Va’ad Ha’ir-supervised kosher lunches served Monday-Friday at noon. Lunch reservations are required by noon on the previous business day. There is a suggested contribution per meal. The menu is subject to change. The program is funded by a grant from the Onondaga County Department of Aging and Youth and the New York State Office for the Aging, with additional funds provided by the JCC. To attend, one need not be Jewish or a member of the JCC. For more information or to make a reservation, contact Cindy Stein at 445-2360 ext. 104 or cstein@jccsyr.org.
ISSUE
Thursday, September 24, early..... October 15 Wednesday, October 14................. October 29 Wednesday, October 28............. November 12 Wednesday, November 11......... November 26
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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ OCTOBER 1, 2015/18 TISHREI 5776
congregational notes Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas More adult learning opportunities at CBS-CS Rabbi Andrew Pepperstone will once again hold a Thursday discussion group at 10:30 am sponsored by the Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas Sisterhood. Throughout the course of the year, he will cover four different topics, each running for four sessions. The first series, “Subversive Sequels in the Bible,” will explore biblical narratives. It is based on the book of the same title by Judy Klitsner. The four-session class will be held on October 8 and 22, November 12 and December 10. Cantor Paula Pepperstone will offer the 10-session class “Owning Your Trope” to prepare participants to read Torah at services. The class is designed for those
who already know trope but who want to prepare to read a specific Torah portion at services. The classes will be held Mondays at 7 pm, starting October 12. The class will be open to the community; but there will be a fee for non-CBS-CS members. There will also be a four-part workshop to help people develop the discipline to make changes in their personal relationships. The workshop will explore the practice of Mussar, a spiritual approach to ethical living, starting on Tuesday, October 20, at 7 pm. The sessions will be led by Joan Burstyn, Syracuse University professor emerita of education and history, and a published poet. She has been practicing Mussar for four years. The workshop will use Alan Morinis’ “Every Day, Holy Day” (2010), together with Morinis’ earlier
book, “Everyday Holiness” (2007). The first session will provide a brief review of the history of Mussar teaching, an introduction to some Mussar activities, and planning on how to address the first middah (character trait) in the coming week. Later sessions will include discussions of individuals’ Mussar experiences from the past week, as well as further study of Mussar practices. Organizers hope the
discussion will draw on participants’ own knowledge and experience, as well as on Morinis’ books. By the end of the fourth session, it is hoped that participants will have had the opportunity to focus for one week on each of three middot (character traits). For more information or to sign up, contact the CBS-CS office at 446-9570 or office@cbscs.org.
Temple Concord Temple Concord has many activities in October A variety of programs and activities will be held in and around Temple Concord in October. The synagogue will host the first in its series of “Jewish History through Cooking” classes taught by Rabbi Daniel Fellman and Chef Steve Samuels on Sunday, October 4, at 10 am. This month’s program will be “Foods of the Bible, including manna and matzah.” To celebrate beginning the Torah again with the story of creation, “Havdalah under the Stars” will be held on Saturday, October 10, at 6 pm, at the Museum of Science and Technology. There will be a fall blood drive on Sunday, October 18, at 9 am.
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The Regina F. Goldenberg Cultural Series will celebrate the 50th anniversary of Temple Concord’s 2700-pipe organ on Tuesday, October 20, at 7 pm, with a recital by Andrew Henderson, associate organist at New York City’s Temple Emanu-El. A graduate of the Juilliard School’s doctoral program and director of music at Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church, Henderson will perform works from the Jewish liturgical and classical organ repertoires, including works by Louis Lewandowski, Will C. Macfarlane, Gottfried Federlein, Lazare Saminsky, Felix Mendelssohn and J. S. Bach. For information on any of the events, contact the TC office at 475-9952 or administrator@templeconcord.org
L-r: Ariella Shever and Anya Reckess made sand art at the Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas annual Back-to-Shul barbecue.
Members of Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas grilled the meat at the 2015 CBS-CS Back to Shul barbecue.
Shabbaton
the offices of the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center of Syracuse facilitating the project, eight teenagers from the Syracuse area were able to attend. Boys and girls participated in ongoing leadership training exercises and discussions. Shabbat services, kosher meals and kashrut were strictly observed. The retreat offered the teenagers an opportunity to be together in a non-academic
Continued from page 3 atmosphere without parental supervision, as well as a place to socialize with other Jewish teenagers and develop “a sense of camaraderie.” The participants were said to have found and developed “a new feeling of belonging.” Organizers hope that this is just the beginning of leadership seen from the teenagers as they take on leadership roles in various groups in their synagogues and local Jewish communities.
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OCTOBER 1, 2015/18 TISHREI 5776 ■ JEWISH OBSERVER
Open House at the Oaks, October 16, to feature piano virtuoso and wine tasting By Stewart Koenig The Oaks at Menorah Park, located at 18 Arbor Lane on Syracuse’s east side, will offer the community a look at its facility on Friday, October 16, from 12:30-4 pm. Participants may stay for a piano recital and wine tasting. From 12:30-2 pm, tours will be offered of the Oaks’ apartments and public spaces, including its dining room. Guests can listen to virtuoso pianist Lisa Spector from 2-3 pm. A Syracuse native, Spector is a concert pianist, Julliard graduate and canine music expert. As a concert
pianist, Spector won first prizes in the New York and Los Angeles Chopin competitions. She has performed in China, Poland, Spain, France, Italy and throughout the U.S. She is the daughter of Oaks resident and artist Trudy Spector. The afternoon program will conclude with a wine tasting from 3-4 pm. A variety of kosher Israeli red and white wines will be featured and available to be purchased. Oaks Executive Director Mary Kimberly said, “We’re eager to show the community how we help older adults
continue living independently while providing the comforts and services they want and need. At the same time, Lisa Spector’s spectacular piano playing and wine sampling of some great kosher varieties make this an event not to miss.” For more information about Lisa, visit www. lisaspector.com. For more information on the Oaks, contact marketing director Beth Beach at 449-3309 or bbeach@menorahparkofcny.com, or visit www. menorahparkofcny.com.
The Oaks hosts kosher Chinese Banquet, Sunday, October 18, featuring recipes by local chef/author By Stewart Koenig Don Siegel, author of the best-selling kosher Chinese cookbook “From Lokshen to Lo Mein: The Jewish Love Affair with Chinese Food,” will lend his expertise and recipes on Sunday, October 18, at 6 pm, for a Chinese food banquet at the Oaks at Menorah Park. The 11-course meal will feature savory dishes, including the original General Tso’s chicken recipe from
Taiwan. Vegetarian options will also be available, and wine will be included with dinner. Siegel will guide diners through each course with personal anecdotes about cooking. He has cooked for decades and competed in an “Iron Chef” competition against the head of the Sichuan Higher Institute of Culinary Cuisine in Chengdu. He also recently appeared in the documentary “Searching for General Tso.”
“Our dining staff will learn from and work with Don to present these kosher Chinese delicacies. This will, no doubt, be a delicious evening,” said Mary Kimberly, the Oaks’ executive director. The deadline for reservations is Saturday, October 10. For more information and to make reservations, e-mail Jarrod.Charsky@sodexo.com or call 446-9111, ext .160.
JCC offers fall Do You Know? Your Federation dollars at work – Jewish arts enrichment classes and culture for preschoolers By Jackie Miron TheAllocations Committee of the Jewish Federation of Central New York awards community Program Fund Grants annually during the fall. The grants are available to all Jewish organizations, agencies, and synagogues in the Central New York community. The funds come from Federation’s Annual Jackie Miron Campaign and are given out in amounts of $10,000, $5,000 or $2,500. The Allocations Committee reviews the grant requests and makes recommendations to the board, which then votes on the recommendations. Jewish arts and cultural programs were given $6,000, an unusual amount, because it covered two arts and cultural programs. The Jewish Music and Culture Festival at the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center has been increasingly popular, especially the event on August 30. Once held downtown, the event moved to the Jewish Community Center because of participants’ demands, as the JCC is considered one of the central meeting places of the Jewish community. Funds were used to expand music and food options, with a large food tent featuring an array of Va’ad-supervised kosher food to eat in or take out. Festival goers considered the food tent a convenient and centralized gathering place. In case of inclement weather, the tent would have given participants a way to still enjoy the music without having to move indoors.
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Attendees praised the shorter lines and increased menu options, as well as the food, which many called “delicious.” Later this month, Federation funding will also allow the JCC to host two screenings of Jewish-themed films in conjunction with the Syracuse International Film Festival. The festival begins on Wednesday, October 14, and the JCC will host two screenings of Jewish films – both on Sunday, October 18, at 1 and 3 pm. The JCC is also sponsoring the screening of “House of Wishes” (2013-14), an Israeli film directed by Haim Bouzaglo, at the Palace Theater on Saturday, October 17, at 7:30 pm. Bouzaglo has received two Academy Award nominations for best director. The JCC plays an important role in bringing state-of-the-art international and cultural films to Syracuse. The grant for Jewish music and culture by the Jewish Federation of Central New York provides meaningful settings for the Jewish community to come together and connect with local Jewish organizations. Judaic-themed programming educates and entertains audiences at highquality events, which are well-attended. Feedback has been positive for the JMAC festival, and organizers are hoping that the upcoming films will be well-received in the community.
By William Wallak The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center’s Jerome and Phyllis Charney Early Childhood Development Program will offer two classes for preschool children ages 3-5 starting in early October. Each class runs four weeks and will be held in the ECDP wing of the JCC, 5655 Thompson Rd., DeWitt. The Smarty Cat Kids Junior Scientist class for 3–4year-olds will be held on Thursdays, starting on October 8, from 1:15-2 pm. Children will participate in hands-on science workshops, which will include experiments, projects and inquiry-based activities. Kidz Yoga for children ages 3-5 will be held on Mondays, starting October 12, from 1:15-2 pm. The “child-friendly” yoga class was designed for “the introspective child” and geared toward helping develop better balance, muscle tone and flexibility. Children will also learn breathing techniques to promote calmness. Jo David, the JCC’s Early Childhood Program director, said, “We’re offering some great classes this fall to expose children to new and exciting experiences. We make the content fun and engaging so that it makes for a perfect midday break and allows children to learn something new.”
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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ OCTOBER 1, 2015/18 TISHREI 5776
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Bereshit, sometimes what’s not in the text, carries the most meaning By Jim Brulé When we study Torah, sometimes what’s not in the text carries the most meaning. Bereshit is my favorite portion. It’s jam-packed with stories that have deep resonance and deeper gaps. It invites us to blend different stories into a sensible whole, and to encounter the Divine as both the primordial source and as a player in the play. Take the scene in the Garden where we read, “And the Lord God called to the human and said to him, ‘Where are you?’ And he said, ‘I heard your sound in the garden and I was afraid, for I was naked, and I hid’” [3:9-10]. Now, you might wonder why the All-Knowing One would have to ask where Adam was. Can we really hide from God? What kind of world would it be if God could be tricked or didn’t know everything? Some might say it’s just a story: it advances the plot to have Adam be able to hide, and to have the discovery of his clothed-ness play an ironic counterpoint to our normal expectation of being embarrassed by not being dressed. In so doing, we walk down a much narrower path: Adam has sinned and must be punished. Naturally, I’d rather look deeper. How can we learn something richer? By looking for what is not there in the text. How do we look? By finding the same story somewhere else, but with something different. We find just such a story with Abraham. In 22:1, we read: “And He said to him, ‘Abraham!’ and he said, ‘Hineni.’” That’s it, that’s what’s missing: the response “Hineni.” In its simplest sense, “Hineni” means “Here I am.” But don’t be complacent with such a simple answer. If
mazel tov Rachel Elman wins first place at New York State Fair
we believe that we’re not hidden from God, then, what is being asked? It’s not where are you – in the sense of location – it’s, “Are you here? Are you present? Are you ready for Me?” This is the question that runs through all of our important encounters with the Divine. It’s not “where is God?” It’s “Are we present?” Are we prepared to let go of our mishegas and live a life where we can encounter the world of Spirit at any turn? Not, by the way, are we ready to live in bliss? But, are we ready to live in the world of transformation, where we participate in dynamic encounters with the Divine in each of us: healing, rejoicing, weeping, loving? No one can be present all the time, but each of us can be some of the time. Where are you? Will you hide, or say, “Hineni”? Jim Brulé is a maggid, a Jewish spiritual storyteller and guide. He is most often found at Temple Concord, where he leads services and study sessions. His most recent projects include two interfaith series, one with Christians and the other with Muslims.
NEWS IN bRIEF From JNS.org
Israel refutes claim that it is preventing Palestinians from aiding Syrian refugees
Palestinian envoy to the United Nations Riyad Mansour on Sept. 19 accused Israel of preventing the Palestinian Authority from aiding Syrian refugees. Mansour claimed Israel has denied some 100,000 Palestinian Syrian refugees passage to P.A.-controlled territory through Israel. In a letter to U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Mansour urged the U.N. Security Council to order Israel to allow the refugees’ passage so that the P.A. could absorb them in its territories. The Israeli Foreign Ministry said in response, “The Palestinian Authority’s cynicism knows no bounds. They are even willing to use the Syrian refugee crisis to create provocation. Israeli hospitals have so far treated over 1,700 wounded Syrians, while the Palestinian Authority has done nothing for them.”
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Manlius-Pebble Hill School ninth grade student Rachel Elman won first place in the “fine art – wild life” category for seventh-12th grades at the New York State Fair Art Competition for her pencil drawing, “Who’s There?” The competition is a juried show, where most pieces entered are not accepted for display in the gallery. Students, amateurs and professionals from around the state compete at different levels for cash prizes and the prestige of having their work displayed during the fair. Elman is the daughter of Miriam and Colin Elman, of Fayetteville.
Continued from page 2 – from jewelry, clothing and house wares to crafts – was fantastic. It’s so great to see everyone come together and the sense of community created at this event.” At the JMAC, the Jewish community was represented by all of the local synagogues. Rabbi Yaakov Rapoport presented a program on shofar-making, and the local rabbis lead discussions at the “Rabbi’s Corner.” JCC Executive Director Marci Erlebacher said, “It was a great day and a great festival. Congratulations to the JMAC committee and everyone involved for creating such a successful event.” This year’s event sponsors included Price Chopper; the Jewish Federation of Central New York; M and T Charitable Foundation; the Paul and Georgina Roth Foundation; The Reisman Foundation; CNYArts; Key Bank; Birnbaum Funeral Service; the Pomeranz, Shankman and Martin Trust; Raymour and Flanigan Furniture; the JCC; a grant from New York State Senator John DeFrancisco; the Jewish Observer; and a grant from NYSCA, for the appearance of the Alhambra Ensemble. Also thanked were Lynn and Corinne Smith, Barry and Debrah Shulman, the Jerome and Phyllis Charney Foundation and festival community sponsors: Birnbaum Funeral Services, Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Shas, Keyna Hora Klezmer Band, Sisskind Funeral Service, Temple Adath Yeshurun, Temple Concord and Shaarei Torah Orthodox Congregation.
l-m painting 2x2 with classified header 2x1 L-r: Alhambra Sephardic Ensemble band members Adam Good (guitar), Jeremy Bloom (accordion) and Rami El Aasser (percussion) performed at the Jewish Music and Cultural festival.
OCTOBER 1, 2015/18 TISHREI 5776 ■ JEWISH OBSERVER
NEWS IN bRIEF From JNS.org
Netanyahu to Putin: goal is “no misunderstanding between our forces” at border
obituaries I understand your concern and I am very pleased that you have come here to discuss all issues in detail.”
Gaza rocket strikes Ashkelon area as Amid Israeli concern about Russia’s recent military tension runs high in southern Israel
buildup in neighboring Syria, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Sept. 21. Netanyahu told Putin in public remarks that he was visiting Russia “to clarify our policies, and to make sure that there is no misunderstanding between our forces” at the Israeli-Syrian border. “As you know, in recent years, and particularly in recent months, Iran and Syria have been arming the extremist Islamic terrorist organization Hezbollah with advanced weapons, aimed at us, and over the years thousands of rockets and missiles have been fired against our cities,” Netanyahu said. “At the same time, Iran, under the auspices of the Syrian army, is attempting to build a second terrorist front against us from the Golan Heights. Our policy is to prevent these weapons transfers, and to prevent the creation of a terrorist front and attacks on us from the Golan Heights.” Putin said Russia’s actions in the Middle East “will always be very responsible,” and that Russia condemns any shelling of northern Israel that represents spillover from the nearby Syrian civil war. “Our main goal is to defend the Syrian state,” he said. “However,
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A rocket fired from the Gaza Strip exploded in an open area in the Ashkelon region of southern Israel late Sept. 20. Rocket warning alerts did not sound, as Israel Defense Forces radars quickly determined that the rocket was on a trajectory toward an uninhabited area. No injuries or damage were reported. The incident came two days after a rocket exploded near a home in Sderot, causing property damage, and another was intercepted overAshkelon by the Iron Dome anti-rocket system. The rocket that struck Sderot was the first to hit a residential neighborhood in Israel since Operation Protective Edge ended in August 2014. In response to the Sept. 18 rocket fire, the Israeli Air Force struck three terrorist infrastructure sites in Gaza. In a statement, the Israeli military said it would not tolerate any rocket fire from Gaza and that it held the Hamas terrorist group responsible for all violence emanating from the coastal enclave. A Salafi terrorist group, the Sheikh Omar Hadid Brigade, took responsibility for the Sept. 18 rocket fire. On Sept. 20, the Israeli military deployed Iron Dome batteries near Sderot and Netivot. A week earlier, an Iron Dome battery was deployed in the Ashdod area.
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of “combating terrorism.” Other reports suggested that Russians participating in military operations in Syria. A Lebanese source familiar with the situation in Syria told Reuters that the Russians “are taking part in military operations. It is more than an advisory role.” U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry has sought to clarify Russia’s intentions in Syria and has warned his Russian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, that Russia’s actions could “further escalate the conflict” and “risk confrontation with the anti-ISIL (Islamic State) coalition operating in Syria.” Borshchevskaya believes that through his buildup of Russian forces in Syria, Putin “is advancing an idea for an international coalition to fight ISIS, but in reality, he only wants to keep Assad in power and deflect attention from the crisis in Ukraine he created. “By pointing to ISIS as a greater common enemy, he will advocate that the West set aside differences over Ukraine,” Borshchevskaya told JNS.org. Russia has been a supporter of the Assad regime since the Cold War, when the Soviet Union backed Hafez alAssad, Bashar’s father, who ruled Syria until his death in 2000. As one of Syria’s few Mideast allies, Russia continues to maintain its Soviet-era naval facility in the Syrian coastal city of Tartus – its only such base outside of the boundaries of the former Soviet Union. “At the same time, ensuring that Assad is in power protracts the Syrian conflict and ensures Putin’s influence in Syria and the Middle East, at the expense of the West. Also, given Russia’s dire domestic problems – economic recession, population decline, unsustainable military spending and other problems – he is pointing to an external enemy,” Borshchevskaya said. For Israel, Russia’s buildup in neighboring Syria is a major concern. Netanyahu is expected to discuss with Putin the threats posed to Israel from the increased weapons flow to Syria as well as the transfer of deadly weapons to Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations, the Israeli Prime Minister’s office said in a statement. All the while, Israel is said to have “a complex and somewhat positive” relationship with Russia. Since the end of the Cold War, Israel has become home to hundreds of thousands of Russian immigrants, and as such the Jewish state maintains close economic and cultural ties with Russia. “In recent years, Israel and Russia have significantly improved ties on a number of fronts,” said Borshchevskaya. “Nonetheless, this has limits, as in practice; Putin’s regional policy is primarily driven by zero-sum antiAmericanism and anti-Westernism to position Russia as a counterweight to the West in the region.” Israel has been at odds with Russia over the latter’s strong support for the Iran nuclear deal and the impending Russian sale of the advanced S-300 missile defense system to Iran. On a parallel track with Israeli concerns are growing American-Russian disagreements over Syria. Kerry announced on September 18 that the U.S. is hoping to engage in direct military-to-military talks with Russia. “The president believes that a military-to-military conversation is an important next step,” Kerry said, “and I think, hopefully, it will take place very shortly.” The U.S. has long maintained that Assad must step down if there is going to be a lasting solution to the Syrian civil war. Kerry, however, hinted that the U.S. may allow Assad to stay in power for the short-term until a
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political settlement is reached. “Our focus remains on destroying ISIL and also on a political settlement with respect to Syria, which we believe cannot be achieved with the long-term presence of Assad,” Kerry told reporters on September 18 while he was in London to meet with his British counterpart, Philip Hammond. “But we’re looking for ways in which to try to find a common ground,” added Kerry. “Clearly, if you’re going to have a political settlement, which we’ve always argued is the best and only way to resolve Syria, you need to have conversations with people, and you need to find a common ground.” Meanwhile, as far as Israel is concerned, Netanyahu will likely seek for Putin to ease the former’s concerns about a possible confrontation between Israeli and Russian forces at the Syrian border. “Israel does have some leverage over Russia; for instance, Israel had remained publicly neutral on Russia’s actions in Ukraine and did not sell weapons to Kiev,” Borshchevskaya told JNS.org. “If bilateral relations between Russia and Israel continue to deteriorate, Israel may start selling weapons to Kiev.” Moving forward, some believe that Putin will continue to prop up the Assad regime at all costs, even though it is felt that Assad cannot win the war. “Putin wants to restore Russia as a great power in the Middle East that opposes the West,” said Borshchevskaya. “For us (Western nations), diplomacy is about win-win scenarios, but for Putin, it’s “I win, you lose.’”
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Beatrice (Bea) Bronstein Carroll
Beatrice Bronstein Carroll, of DeWitt, died September 9. Born in Brooklyn, she married Samuel Bronstein in 1942 and settled in Syracuse. She was a member of Temple Adath Yeshurun; the TAY Seniors; TAY Sisterhood; Jewish Community Center seniors; Ladies Auxiliary of the Jewish War Veterans, where she was secretary for 15 years; a life member of Hadassah; and the Red Hat Society. She worked for Dey Brothers, Upstate Builders’ Association and Onondaga County, retiring in 1985. She was predeceased by her first husband, Samuel Bronstein, in 1961, and her second husband of 18 years, Jack Carroll, in 2001. She is survived by her daughter, Sandy (Chuck) Harris; two stepsons, Brian (Nancy) Carroll and Evan Carroll; a sister, Shirley Morgenstern; a brother, David (Doris) Newman; a sister-in-law, Irene Bronstein; two grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and two step-great-grandchildren. Burial was in the Anshe Sfard Cemetery. Birnbaum Funeral Service had arrangements. Contributions may be made to the Jewish Community Center, Senior Meal Program, 5655 Thompson Rd., DeWitt, NY 13214; or Hospice of Central New York, 990 7th N. St., Liverpool, NY 13088.
Wendie Feldman Moore
Wendie Feldman Moore, 53, of Brewerton, died on September 17, after battling health issues for numerous years. She worked for many years as a teacher for Head Start. She is survived by her son, Benjamin Moore; her husband, Brian Moore, of Bernhard’s Bay; her mother-inlaw, Margaret Simpson, of Bernhard’s Bay; her brother, Lester Feldman, of Syracuse; her sister, Deborah Feldman Vigeant, of Tiverton, RI; a nephew; and her father, George (Irina) Feldman, of Syracuse. She was buried in the Beth El Cemetery. Sisskind Funeral Service had arrangements.
Classes
Continued from page 5 Registration for the classes is ongoing through the start of each session. Children do not need to be enrolled in the JCC’s ECDP and JCC membership is not required to take the classes. However members receive a discount. For more information, call the JCC’s Early Childhood Program at 445-2040, ext. 120, or visit www.jccsyr.org.
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JEWISH OBSERVER ■ OCTOBER 1, 2015/18 TISHREI 5776
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Syracuse Jewish Children’s Fund Committee meets By Barbara Baum The Syracuse Jewish Children’s Fund Committee held its annual meeting on August 11 to discuss the fund’s financial assets and award monetary grants to several local agencies to benefit children. Committee Chair Michael Moss was recognized for his more than 30 years of service. Michael Kalet, nominated by Moss to be the new chair and formally approved by the committee, has taken over leadership responsibilities. Bonnie Leff and Barbara Baum will be secretaries. In 1878, the Jewish Orphan Asylum Society was formed when Temple Society of Concord, along with the Reform synagogues of Buffalo and Rochester, planned and built a building for the Jewish Orphan Asylum of Western New York. Its mission was to provide a home that would support a secular, as well as religious, education for Jewish youth who did not have families able to do so. The asylum was erected in Rochester to serve the entire upper New York State region, including Watertown and Utica. The older building was replaced in 1925 and the new building served as a home for 21 children that year. Syracuse
native Louis Marshall is said to have been a major donor. The orphanage was closed in 1928, when the need for such institutions declined. The property was sold and its assets divided among the contributing Jewish communities of Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse. The investment of the money has provided a continuing legacy, allowing for some money to be distributed periodically to support children in the Syracuse community. The fund continues to serve children and is managed by the Jewish Community Foundation of Central New York, Inc. Donations to the fund can be made to the Foundation and are always welcome. This year, money has been awarded to the Central New York Friends of Israeli Scouts, InterFaith Works of Central New York, Syracuse Hebrew Day School, Syracuse Jewish Family Service at Menorah Park and the Temple Concord Religious School. Kalet said, “It has been an honor to deliver the checks in person. Everyone has been most appreciative to receive community recognition and monetary support for their respective agencies.”
The Syracuse Jewish Children’s Fund Committee held its annual meeting on August 11. L-r: Bonnie Leff, William Berinstein, Barbara Baum, incoming Chair Michael Kalet and outgoing Committee Chair Michael Moss.
NEWS IN bRIEF From JNS.org
Israeli baby survives rock-throwing attack south of Jerusalem
An Israeli couple and their 4-month-old daughter emerged uninjured from a stonethrowing attack as they were driving outside Jerusalem on Sept. 20. Avi and Sara Gamss, of Tekoa, were driving in two cars near the Palestinian village of Beit Sahur when the attack began. Sara Gamss was in the first car, with their daughter strapped into a car seat in the front passenger seat. Avi Gamss was following. “We were on our way to add reinforcements to the car [to guard against rock-throwing attacks],” Avi Gamss said, Israel Hayom reported. “That’s why we drove in two cars – so one could be modified and we could drive home in the second one. As we got close to Beit Sahur, about 15 masked attackers suddenly appeared right at the side of the road. It happened really quickly; they must have been hiding. It was too late to turn around.” Gamss continued, “The terrorists got closer to my wife’s car and started to throw big rocks from about 2 meters away, cracking the windshield….It all happened in front of me. All the car’s mirrors were damaged and one rock went through the front window, flew over our baby’s head, and landed in the back seat. It is a miracle that she survived.” The attack came as the Israeli defense establishment is working to fight rock-throwing attacks. In all, Israel police have recently arrested at least 27 rock-throwing suspects.
A 1,000-year-old Yom Kippur prayer book fragment to be put online
A fragment of a Yom Kippur prayer book from the Cairo Geniza, considered one of the most important resources for understanding Jewish culture, religion, economics and literature from the Middle Ages to the present, is slated to be uploaded to the website of the National Library of Israel. The 1,000-year-old document was discovered in a synagogue in Postat, the Old City of Cairo, alongside holy works, correspondence, and legal and business documents. Dr. Yoel Finkelman, curator of the Judaica collection at the National Library of Israel, said that “this document is the oldest Yom Kippur prayer book in the National Library’s collection. ...It is an important testimony to the liturgical poetry and prayers recited in Cairo at that time….This isn’t a complete prayer book, just part of one page out of a longer book, which was written at the end of the 11th century or the beginning of the 12th century by a scribe named Hillel Ben Ali, who was a cantor in Baghdad, moved to Cairo, and worked as the official scribe for the court in Cairo.”